Photography by Mike Valore

Monthly Archives: January 2013

Puerto Rico is the highlight of my first posts in this blogging experiment. Thus far, Puerto Rico is my favorite location in the Caribbean (Cancun, Aruba, St. Croix). Flights and hotels are affordable and the island has something for everyone. Personal safety never felt like a concern in San Juan or any other area for that matter. The climate and terrain is diverse with desert sands on the south west end of the island and tropical rainforest in the northeast. My wife and I spent eight days on the island in 2012.

Destination 1: El Yunque Rainforest

The El Yunque Rainforest is the only rainforest found in the United States. Located in northeastern Puerto Rico, this 28,000 acre rainforest is a must see on the island. Within the park, a short drive and or hike can take you from mountain peaks in the clouds to spectacular secluded waterfalls. The Yokahu observation tower, La Mina Falls, and La Coca Falls are popular attractions. Long strenuous hikes are available as well as shorter more accessible trails. The La Mina Falls trail is easily accessed and the trail is even paved in some areas. The less popular Juan Diego Creek trail is the must see in my opinion. Finding the trail is the most difficult part. Excellent directions can be found here. The climb up to Juan Diego falls (post header shot) is not too strenuous however it is steep. The cool water of the falls is refreshing after a day of hiking in the humid rainforest. Shots below were taken with an Olympus EPL-1 and package 14-42mm lens. Next Post: Old Town San Juan and Castillo San Felipe del Morro.